Yet another mac pro question

[rdsii64]

I know this is going to sound stupid but bare with me. I currently have a 2008 2.8 GHZ octocore mac pro with 32 gigs of ram and it works as well as its supposed to. While its probably not as fast as the newer stuff for most things, when it comes to video encodes with apps like handbrake, it literally runs like greased lightning.

Now comes my question. I'm currently saving for a new(er) computer and have come to the realization that an iMac is all I'm going to be able to afford. Since I can't afford the new mac pro, how does the newer crop of Imacs compare with the old school 8 core machines for video encoding with apps like handbrake.

 

[ixxx69]

I know this is going to sound stupid but bare with me. I currently have a 2008 2.8 GHZ octocore mac pro with 32 gigs of ram and it works as well as its supposed to. While its probably not as fast as the newer stuff for most things, when it comes to video encodes with apps like handbrake, it literally runs like greased lightning...

If you're main goal is good handbrake performance, then stick with what you have (and upgrade the CPUs if you're up for that sort of thing). The top of the line iMac offers a nice step up in multi-core performance, but it's going to have to work really hard to stay cool during long encoding sessions.

If you're looking for an all-around faster up to date computer, the iMac is a great way to go, but you might either see some throttling during sustained encoding and at the very least, fans running like crazy (and can't be very good for the long-term reliability).

 

[throAU]

Now comes my question. I'm currently saving for a new(er) computer and have come to the realization that an iMac is all I'm going to be able to afford. Since I can't afford the new mac pro, how does the newer crop of Imacs compare with the old school 8 core machines for video encoding with apps like handbrake.

Keep saving until you NEED to replace the Mac Pro. By that time you may be able to get a new generation Mac Pro refurb or second-hand that will be more suitable than an iMac.

 

[haralds]

I know this is going to sound stupid but bare with me. I currently have a 2008 2.8 GHZ octocore mac pro with 32 gigs of ram and it works as well as its supposed to. While its probably not as fast as the newer stuff for most things, when it comes to video encodes with apps like handbrake, it literally runs like greased lightning.

Now comes my question. I'm currently saving for a new(er) computer and have come to the realization that an iMac is all I'm going to be able to afford. Since I can't afford the new mac pro, how does the newer crop of Imacs compare with the old school 8 core machines for video encoding with apps like handbrake.

Given your configuration I do not think you would gain much by going to a faster processor. In most uses, I do not find a perceivable difference between my 3,1 vs 5,1. Encoding tends to be done in queues, so if something is 20% faster it really is not that much of an issue. If you do not have and SSD, it would be a must upgrade. The other is a better video card for certain application - depending on what you have now.
Otherwise, save your money and wait until you can afford your dream machine. If you compromise, you will always regret it and lose the joy of the new acquisition.